The distressing events unfolded in a horrifying sequence – an initial missile struck the town, followed shortly by a second projectile that hit as rescuers were frantically searching for survivors in the aftermath of the first impact.

The aftermath of the attack has left dozens injured, including police personnel and dedicated rescuers who had been on a mission to save lives. The incident also claimed the lives of two innocent children, who tragically became victims of the horrifying assault.

Despite the challenges, rescue teams are persistently working to locate and save any potential survivors, aiming to provide solace to the families affected by this devastating event.

Situated approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) to the north-west of Donetsk city, Pokrovsk finds itself plunged into tragedy due to this appalling attack. The city of Donetsk remains under Russian occupation, further deepening the distressing context. In times of peace, Pokrovsk had been home to a population of around 60,000 residents.

Pavlo Krylenko, the head of the Donetsk region, disclosed that the initial missile strike led to the tragic deaths of five innocent civilians. Shockingly, the second assault claimed the life of an emergency services official and military personnel.

Krylenko underscored the heartbreaking extent of destruction, emphasizing that the attack targeted a wide array of structures, including high-rise buildings, private residences, administrative facilities, eateries, and even a hotel.

Strongly condemning the incident, Krylenko characterized Russia as a "terrorist state" and vehemently demanded accountability for the reprehensible actions, conveying this message through a post on the Telegram platform.

Additional Ukrainian officials offered distressing insights into the situation, revealing that the second missile struck a mere 40 minutes after the initial hit. Tragically, this second strike proved fatal for the rescuers who had been risking their lives to navigate the ruins created by the first missile impact.

Ukrainian President Zelensky described the targeted location as an "ordinary residential building" that was tragically transformed into a scene of devastation.

“The city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region. Donbas, from which Russia is trying to leave only broken and scorched stones. Two missile strikes. An ordinary residential building was hit. Unfortunately, there are victims. Rescuers and all necessary services are on the scene. The rescue of people continues,” Zelensky wrote in a statement on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. (ILKHA)